Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) is a clear and colourless fluid that is present in your brain and spinal cord. The Central Nervous System is made up of the Brain and Spinal Cord that performs various functions. This includes complex thinking, muscle movement, and organ function. CSF controls all these functions. It also clears the waste in your brain and helps it to function well.
The Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) is a set of tests done to analyse if you have any serious conditions or diseases in your brain or spinal cord.Â
Let us read further to know this test in detail, its procedure and test results.
What is CSF Test used for?
The set of CNS tests is done to analyse:
Components |
Normal Ranges |
Antibodies and DNA of common viruses |
None |
Myelin basic protein |
Less than 4ng/mL |
Opening pressure |
90 to 180mm of water |
Cancerous cells |
No cancerous cells present |
Cell count:Â |
WBC: less than 5 and RBC: 0 |
Chloride |
110 to 125 mEq/L |
Glucose |
50 to 80 mg/dLÂ |
Glutamine |
6 to 15 mg/dL |
Lactate dehydrogenase |
less than 40 U/L |
Oligoclonal bands |
0 or 1 bands |
Protein |
15 to 60 mg/dL ( |
The abnormal ranges of your CSF test may indicate:
Why do I need a CSF Test?
You may need a CSF test if you experience the following symptoms:
1.Infections in brain or spinal cord:
2. Autoimmune disorder, such as multiple sclerosis (MS):
For further interpretation of the results, consult your doctor and get the earliest treatment.
What happens during the CSF Test?
A procedure called Spinal Tap or Lumbar Puncture is done to collect your Cerebral Spinal Fluid. The procedure is usually done at the hospital. This includes the following steps:
What should I do after the CSF test?
After the test is complete, it is sent to the laboratory for examination. Your doctor will ask you to lie flat for one hour after the lumbar puncture or spinal tap. You may develop a headache after the spinal tap. Your doctor may advise you to drink caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, or soda if it happens.
What does the CSF detect?
The CSF test may detect the following:
Can CSF leak be cured?
CSF leaks can be caused by an injury, an epidural, surgery, a spinal tap or a tumour. Many CSF heal on their own, but those don't require surgical repair.
How long does a CSF test take?
The CSF test is an easy, quick and effective series of tests done to find the serious conditions or diseases that develop in your brain or spinal cord. The whole procedure takes between five minutes to one hour.
How should I prepare for the test?
Your health care expert will guide you through the preparations before the test. However, it is generally advised to empty your bladder and bowels before the test.
Are there any risks to the test?
CSF test may have the following risks involved:
If you have any queries, feel free to book an appointment with our specialists and get a medical opinion.
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